Sunday, December 28, 2014

One of my favorite parts about the holiday season is the music and the spirit it brings. Music helps us to deeply meditate on the things that are most important in life. The meanings and words direct us to feelings of profound gratitude. It quickly softens and unlocks the heart. Music is another way to open the windows of Heaven.

This holiday season has served as a reminder that the best gifts are the ones that aren't wrapped. Starting at the top of my list is my sweetheart and eternal companion Martha. She was followed by our dear children Bradley, Isabella, and Daniel. Each of them are a precious gift and all are gifts to great to be wrapped. For the joy and happiness they bring is eternal and everlasting.

I've learned to appreciate more and more the gift of someone giving of their time and talents. We received a lot of help from family, friends, and ward members with our move. We are truly grateful for each individual contribution as each was a tremendous gift.

These gifts I've spoken of are too big to be wrapped and there's no room or Christmas tree that would be able to receive them all. We are very grateful for all of our unwrapped holiday and Christmas gifts.

As we look forward to a new year, we're working to develop our talent to become better at counting our blessings and being grateful for them. We especially want to show our gratitude by finding ways to give back. This reciprocates the process being the receiver and the giver.

We know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ that we can count our blessing and name them one by one. We'll see with greater perspective what God has done and will continue to do for us. It is through Christ's atoning sacrifice that the windows of heaven will always open and our Heavenly Fathers love will never be turned away.